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Koh Tao is a small island north of Koh Samui, known for its scuba diving. Cheap certification courses draw divers from around the world, and most of the nightlife sits along Sairee Beach. The ferry does the trip from Koh Samui to Koh Tao at $15 (512 THB), and the crossing takes 1h 30m - 6h 15m.
Distance from Koh Samui to Koh Tao
Koh Samui and Koh Tao are about 68 km (42 miles) apart, crossed directly by sea. Depending on the option, the trip takes between 1h 30m and 6h 15m.
How to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao?
The ferry is the only suitable way for travellers to travel from Koh Samui to Koh Tao. The journey takes around 1h 30m, and ticket prices start from $15 (512 THB).
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Koh Samui to Koh Tao by Ferry
Songserm, Lomprayah, Phantip 1970 and SmackOne are the ferry companies operating on this route. There are several departures a day from various ports in Koh Samui. Travel time is around 1h 30m - 6h 15m and ferry prices start from $15 (512 THB).
Departure port
Being the more popular and bigger island, Koh Samui has many piers spread around the island.
We recommend first checking the location of your hotel, so you can choose the pier that is closest to your hotel. Even if your ferry includes hotel pick-up, it will save you travel time to get to the port.
The ferries leaving from Koh Samui to Koh Tao depart from Bangrak Pier or Nathon Pier. Keep on reading to find the ferry schedules for each departure port.
Arrival port
All ferries heading to Koh Tao arrive at Mae Haad Pier on the east side of Koh Tao, close to many accommodations.
Once you reach Mae Haad Pier in Koh Tao, you will need to arrange your own transportation. You can also ask your hotel if they offer pick-up service from the pier.
Check out our Ultimate Koh Tao Travel Guide to find out how to get around in Koh Tao.
Ferry schedule from Bangrak Pier, Koh Samui to Koh Tao
Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.
Booking Tip
Ferry Option 2
Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.
Booking Tip
Lomprayah operates a ferry to Koh Tao from Koh Samui leaving from Lompraya office at Maenam Samui pier. This pier is also located in the north of Koh Samui, but more on the western side. This is a bit further than Bangrak if you stay around the Chaweng beach area.
If you stay on the west side of the island, it’s a great option that gets you to Koh Phangan fast.
Our favourite places to stay in Koh Tao
Here are our favourite places to stay in Koh Tao for every budget.
BudgetThe Stamp Hotel
Located not far from Sairee Beach. The Stamp Hotel is simple, clean and provides everything you could need for a comfortable stay. The staff are the star of this hotel, helping you with recommendations and hiring scooters.
All rooms come with a patio or balcony for you to sit back and immerse yourself in the nature that surrounds the hotel. This is a great budget option in Koh Tao!
- Super clean rooms
- Amazing staff
- Good location
- Great value for money
Private rooms start from $24 (798 THB) per night.
Mid-RangeBudchui Village2
Budchui Village2 is located just 500m from Sairee Beach and offers a beautiful swimming pool. The stunning mountain views, lush greenery and tranquillity will make for a perfect escape from the busy streets of Koh Tao.
Staff are very helpful and will assist in booking tours, onward travel plans and renting motorcycles or bicycles.
- Swimming pool
- Close to the beach
- Stunning mountain views
- Friendly and helpful staff
Private room starts at $31 (1,030 THB) per night.
Mid-RangeThe Dearly Koh Tao Hostel
Located in the Chalok Baan Kao area this hostel is surrounded by nature, lush scenery and tranquillity. The hostel has a large outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, a bar and a great rooftop terrace for guests to soak in all the sights.
There is also a common area for socializing with a TV, books and a shared computer. Thinking about getting your PADI in Koh Tao, the hostel is also a dive centre. The rooms are spacious and clean with private balconies.
- Swimming pool
- Dive centre
- On-site restaurant and bar
- Extremely clean
Private room starts at $36 (1,197 THB) per night.
Treat YourselfView Point Resort
View Point Resort is one of the best places to stay in the whole of Koh Tao. The views are exceptional, the rooms are perfectly designed for an island getaway and they even have a private beach area.
The lagoon-style swimming pool overlooks the sea below, or opt for one of the stunning villas which have their own private swimming pool. Life cannot get much better than this!
- Beautiful swimming pools
- Exceptional views
- Private beach
- Delicious complimentary breakfast
Villas start from $86 (2,859 THB) per night.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Koh Tao?
Koh Tao is also a popular diving destination in the Gulf of Thailand. Known as one of the cheapest locations in the world to get your PADI license, the island offers beautiful underwater scenery with gorgeous coral gardens and tons of fish.
It may be just 1/10 the size of its neighbour Koh Samui, but that doesn’t mean there is less to see in Koh Tao. Here, you’ll find beautiful bays, beaches and viewpoints — all just a motorbike ride away. And the best part? You can enjoy all these at a more laidback and slow pace.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Koh Samui to Koh Tao, roughly 68 kilometres (42 miles) apart. The cheapest fare is $15 (512 THB). The quickest trip takes 1h 30m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Koh Samui to Koh Tao?
The distance from Koh Samui to Koh Tao is 68 kilometres (42 miles).
What is the cheapest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao?
The cheapest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao is by ferry with ticket costs starting from 512 THB.
About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Travel Writer
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She's loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand's beaches also have a special place in her heart.
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Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
